Attractions in Alicante

Located on the Costa Blanca, Alicante is a cosmopolitan city with an impressive history that is now the thriving center of tourism, commerce and culture in the region—and home to more than 250,000 people as well. It is also well known for its beautiful beach, picturesque seafront walkways, firs-rate restaurants and shops, and an abundance of sports and nightlife. Not surprisingly, the city attracts vast numbers of Spanish and international vacationers every year.

Visiting Paseo de la Explanada

Today, this magnificent seafront promenade may be Alicante’s most famous attraction. It has four rows of palm trees, street cafes reminiscent of Paris, and complex inlays of cream, black, and red marble tiles that represent Alicante’s colors and make the esplanade so impressive. Locals enjoy strolling here for no particular reason, other than seeing and being seen. In other words, this walkway is an ideal spot for “people watching.”

Other attractions in Alicante

The city center provides an exclusive array of high-quality boutiques, such as the renowned El Corte Ingles, a department store. Here, you can purchase local handicrafts, including wicker baskets and bags at Gata de Gorgos, ceramics at Agost, and rugs at Crevillente. While you are there, you can also shop for exquisite leather goods or the latest designer fashions, and visit Alicante’s outstanding gift shops.

Culture buffs will be glad to know the city has its share of interesting monuments, museums, ongoing cultural events, and frequent fiestas that visitors are sure to enjoy. At the same time, note that it would be a mistake to plan a visit to Alicante with the hope of “getting away from it all.” Instead, come prepared to experience life as it is lived today in a vibrant Spanish city.